How to Live in the Present Moment?

“Yesterday is dead. Tomorrow is unborn. What we have is now.” – Mother Angelica

Last weekend, my mind was occupied with a thousand things in my to-do list. While I was typing my 3000 words essay due on that day, my mind drifted to the other things I should be doing when I finish my essay. Overwhelmed, I typed “How to find peace” on YouTube and the first video that came up was of Mother Angelica on the topic “Living in the present moment.” I realized then that to have peace is to appreciate the moment here and now. Mother Angelica pointed out that we tend to live in the past, focusing on “I used to” moments or freaking out about the things in the future that may never happen.

Living in the present moment has always been a struggle for me. I always think about “what’s next”. I feel like I am constantly chasing after too many things. This attitude has kept me from recognizing the joys and gifts that the present moment brings. For instance, while I was stressed out cooking, I missed seeing the blessing of having capable hands and the blessing of God’s provision. I missed being truly grateful that we have food in our pantry. A lot of people go through the day on empty stomach.

There were mornings when I just hastily prepared for work, missing the joy of looking out the window and seeing the glorious rays of the morning sun. I missed out taking the time to look at my husband, who is one of the greatest manifestations of God’s love for me. When I am in the shower, my mind focuses on the things I must accomplish that day, failing to appreciate the gift of water. A lot of people have no access to clean water.

After work, I would rush going home thinking about my online studies, then I missed out appreciating beautiful sunsets and the different array of colors in the sky. No two sunsets are the same, so every sunset is worth appreciating. During moments when I freak out because my assignments are due, I missed out giving thanks to God for the gift of intellect, for His grace, for His wisdom.
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Today, I pray for the grace to live in the now. Please join me in this journey. Life does not go on forever. Every single moment must be cherished. Time is essential. Let us not allow the busyness of everyday to hinder us from seeing God’s mighty hands in our life. Let us praise and thank Him for the air we breathe, for the gift of every day, for the gift of life. Life is beautiful. That you are alive now - is a miracle. When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God for the gift of another day and pray for eyes that can see His miracles in the ordinary.
©Elly Roberts